Mitsubishi Outlander Sport

The Car Connection Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Overview

The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is not only Mitsubishi's smallest crossover model, it is also by far the most popular offering in the automaker's small U.S. lineup. Despite a name similar to the larger Outlander crossover, it looks more like a tall five-door hatchback than a truck-like utility vehicle.

Its trim levels start with the base ES, move up to the SE and SEL versions, and top out in the high-spec GT model. Changes for 2017 include some additional standard equipment and better seat fabric on the ES.

The Outlander Sport is a rival for a wide range of vehicles including the Kia Sportage, Mazda CX-5, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, and Toyota RAV4. A group of newer small crossover models now arriving on the scene—include the Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-3, Jeep Renegade, Fiat 500X, and Chevy Trax—is likely to also give the littlest Outlander stiff competition.

This year, Mitsubishi has made automatic climate control standard on all Outlander Sports and it also added a sharkfin-style antenna to the little crossover's roof.

For 2016, the Outlander Sport gained a restyled nose that made it more resemble the bigger Outlander. The "Dynamic Shield" grille is the maker's latest styling idiom, though it's busier and more cluttered on the smaller model. A handful of trim and equipment upgrades in 2016 added to the optional 2.4-liter engine introduced for 2015 to give the car a wide range of models and trim levels ranging from $20,000 to $30,000.

The Sport is derived from the current Lancer sedan platform, with a four-cylinder engine driving the front or all four wheels. Base models include a 5-speed manual transmission but can be optioned with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that is standard on all other trims.

Mitsubishi's smallest crossover was first offered in the U.S. for the 2011 model year. Since then, it has benefited from a series of minor updates. Known as the ASX or RVR in other markets, the Outlander Sport is the struggling Japanese automaker's entry into the crowded small-crossover segment. Its short length could almost qualify it as a subcompact, while clever packaging means it retains more interior space within its smaller footprint than some longer rivals.

The Sport's front end bears a resemblance to the larger Outlander. It's profile is more sporty hatchback than crossover or SUV, and the dimensions are tidy. The same carlike feel extends to the interior, with a practical layout and a high roof. Seats are supportive, three kids or two adults will fit comfortably in the back seat, and there's a low cargo floor for easy loading. The Outlander Sport's fault, like other Mitsubishis, is material feel that's below that of competitors, making the vehicle seem very much like it was built to a price.

Originally, all Outlander Sport models came with a 148-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. Buyers could choose a CVT or opt to shift for themselves with a 5-speed manual gearbox with this engine. The manual is our choice, without hesitation, because the CVT tends to make the engine feel sluggish and sound boomy, especially on the highway. Fuel economy was unremarkable, at 25 mpg city, 32 highway in the most efficient configuration.

For 2015, Mitsubishi has added an available 2.4-liter four-cylinder, which is available on two upper trim levels—ES and the newly added GT. The 2.4 puts out 168 hp and 167 lb-ft of torque. The engine is available with either front- or all-wheel drive and comes paired exclusively with a version of the brand's continuously variable transmission. Front-drive models return fuel economy ratings of 23 mpg city, 28 highway, with all-wheel drive lowering those numbers slightly.

The Outlander Sport stands out as a strong value for the money, especially considering that the base model starts at just over $20,000. Even at the base level, front knee airbags are a standard safety feature you won't find in many other models, and keyless entry, automatic climate control, and a 140-watt sound system are all included. Top-of-the-line SE models include a panoramic sunroof, premium audio, and heated seats.

Road noise has been an issue since the Outlander Sport was launched—although Mitsubishi reported a few improvements for 2012, including much needed additional sound insulation. Then for 2013, the model also received a modestly redesigned (and smoother) version of the shark-like front end, plus a new bumper design and revised lower-body trim. Mitsubishi further updated the feature list for 2013 as well, adding standard alloy wheels on all trim levels, with new seat fabrics—and even more noise insulation, possibly soothing some of the harsh, low-rent impression. For 2014, the Outlander Sport got a new touch-screen audio system on SE models, as well as a new seven-inch touch-panel navigation system with real-time traffic. It's bundled with black leather seating as part of an SE Touring Package.

In addition to the 2.4-liter engine and new GT trim level, the 2015 model year also brought another round of refinement improvements, adding a new version of the CVT with better off-the-line performance and slightly better highway fuel economy (a 1-mpg improvement), plus yet more noise insulation.

Amazing vehicle!

Almost missed out on this deal due to the EXPERT reviews. Awesome styling leading in its class !Great interior room. Nimble ,peppy,strong gas sipper .

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August 29, 2016

2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2WD 4-Door Manual 2.0 ES

Great Car, Could Not Be Happier

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I have had my 2016 Outlander sport ES going on two months now and I love it. It is not the fancy model but I do not need the fancier on. I am 70 yrs old and I am the only person who rides it in... I just took...
I have had my 2016 Outlander sport ES going on two months now and I love it. It is not the fancy model but I do not need the fancier on. I am 70 yrs old and I am the only person who rides it in... I just took it on a 3 hour trip one way with a total of 6 hours complete and averaged 30 .4 miles to the gallon, Around home I have been averaging 24.5 miles to the gallon. I live in a resort town and 13 miles one way from where I work. It is a little sluggish from a stop but I am not in a race however I just got a notice that there is a recall out on it which has something to do with it hesitating and resetting the computer which is going to be taken care of today. It had only 6 miles on it when i purchased it and now have 1512 miles on it.I do not drive alot but for what i do drive it is very comfortable and suits my needs perfectly.. I love my Outlander Sport, + More »

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July 22, 2016

2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2WD 4-Door CVT SE

Truly Great Vehicle

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I have had this vehicle for approximately 2 months now and I can honestly say I am 100% satisfied I absolutely love this vehicle and I am 6 foot 3 inches tall and no it's not a race car but it has plenty of...
I have had this vehicle for approximately 2 months now and I can honestly say I am 100% satisfied I absolutely love this vehicle and I am 6 foot 3 inches tall and no it's not a race car but it has plenty of power for what you need the fit and finish is wonderful on this vehicle better than a lot of other ones that I've had so I say to anyone looking at a Mitsubishi vehicle give it a good look you will be surprised at how nice these cars are. + More »